Selectmen seek commuter train service in Wareham

WAREHAM — The future of commuter rail service in town as well as the fate of a downtown railroad station in the community sparked extensive interest and discussion at a recent selectmen's meeting.

CHRIS SHOTT

WAREHAM — The future of commuter rail service in town as well as the fate of a downtown railroad station in the community sparked extensive interest and discussion at a recent selectmen's meeting.

Salvador Pina, director of Wareham's Community and Economic Development Authority, reported on his agency's progress in determining the future status of a Merchants Way building previously used as a train depot when the town had rail service decades ago. The MBTA and Massachusetts Department of Transportation have this summer instituted commuter rail service — named the "Cape Flyer" — from Boston to Hyannis via Wareham. Selectmen said they are eager to explore the possibility of enhancing the town's economic development by establishing a new rail station able to accommodate rail travelers.

Pina said Tuesday that CEDA will hire a consultant to research the boundaries of Merchants Way and will conduct test borings shortly to determine water levels, soil quality and presence of contaminants in water at the site. He also said the agency will apply for special grants to accelerate the project.

Selectman Alan Slavin said state officials have indicated their willingness to consider a stop for the "Cape Flyer" in Wareham if suitable facilities are provided. "The 'Cape Flyer' is going well and Wareham could be in line to open a new station," he said.

While supporting Pina's efforts, Selectwoman Judith Whiteside objected to the Merchants Way site because of its location on a flood plain and lack of suitable parking. She suggested the town pursue procurement of the Wal-Mart store on Cranberry Highway when it is vacated in the near future for a new location in West Wareham.

"This (Merchants Way) is not the right place put a rail station," Whiteside said.

Selectman Patrick Tropeano contradicted Whiteside, claiming a new tenant has already been secured for the existing Wal-Mart property. However, he supported her when he said Merchants Way is "not a viable choice" because of parking limitations.

Selectman Stephen Holmes said the key to establishing a new rail station in Wareham will be the availability of overnight parking to accommodate professional travelers. "That's where we could make some real money," he said.